Mary Lynn (Turner) Stricklin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2025, at the age of eighty-four in Tyler, Texas. She was born on December 17, 1940, in Apple Springs, Texas to William Louie Turner and Corene Kendrick Turner.
Mary Lynn was known for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family. She spent her life nurturing those around her, offering a listening ear, warm meals, and words of encouragement to anyone in need. A woman of strong Christian faith, Mary Lynn was active in her church community and lived each day with grace and compassion. Mary was also a lifetime member of Order of Eastern Star#1035.
She married the love of her life, James "Buddy" Ray Stricklin, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Mary Lynn enjoyed sewing, cooking for her family, and taking care of others. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren, whom she adored. Mary was an amazing seamstress and made a few of her family member's wedding dresses. She worked for many years in Dallas, Texas for SEDCO Oil Company and was their main buyer's representative. She graduated from Centerville High School as a Valedictorian of her class in 1959. She was a highly intelligent woman. She loved living in the country where she was able to take care of her wonderful horse named "Sassy."
Mary Lynn is preceded in death by her parents, William Louie Turner and Corene Turner; her loving husband, James "Buddy" Ray Stricklin; sibling, Annette Turner Fleetwood. She is survived by her loving children: sons, David Stricklin and wife, Jennifer of Palestine, TX and Jason Stricklin and wife, Melissa of Tennessee Colony, TX; grandchildren: Tyler Stricklin and wife, Tabitha, Tara Stricklin and husband, Justin, Alex Havard, Jaxson Stricklin, and Skylar Stricklin; great-grandson, Forrest Stricklin; siblings: Rebecca Bennett, JoNell Griffin, Sharon Turner Diaz, Sandra Turner Clooney, Larry Turner, Keith Turner, Karen Turner Hunt; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will miss her dearly.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. at 11:00 A.M. at Groveton Funeral Home, with interment to follow at Bennett Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, beginning at 10:00 A.M. at Groveton Funeral Home.
Pallbearers: Jeff Griffin, Stephen Bennett, Chris Bennett, Brad Turner, Ben Allen, and Wyatt Turner
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mary Lynn's memory to a charity of your choice or to Apple Springs Baptist Church.
Mary Lynn's legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.